Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with a fire feature, gravel and an awning.

Using walls and steps, we transformed this steep backyard hill into multi-level patio spaces perfect for entertaining
Expansive contemporary backyard patio in Boston with a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Del Mar Exterior Renovation

SJS Studios Inc.

Bluestone Pavers, custom Teak Wood banquette with cement tile inlay, Bluestone firepit, custom outdoor kitchen with Teak Wood, concrete waterfall countertop with Teak surround.

Metal Roof Extension Outdoor Entertain Areas

Southwest Fence & Deck

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with a fire feature and a pergola.

Telluride Cabin

Artisan Builders LLC

Inspiration for an expansive country backyard patio in Denver with natural stone pavers, no cover and a fire feature.

Lake home

TJB HOMES, INC

Photo of a country backyard patio in Minneapolis with a fire feature, no cover and brick pavers.

Westside El Paso Contemporary Outdoor Living

GO Designs Inc.

Cool & Contemporary is the vibe our clients were seeking out. Phase 1 complete for this El Paso Westside project. Consistent with the homes architecture and lifestyle creates a space to handle all occasions. Early morning coffee on the patio or around the firepit, smores, drinks, relaxing, reading & maybe a little dancing. Cedar planks set on raw steel post create a cozy atmosphere. Sitting or laying down on cushions and pillows atop the smooth buff leuders limestone bench with your feet popped up on the custom gas firepit. Raw steel veneer, limestone cap and stainless steel fire fixtures complete the sleek contemporary feels. Concrete steps & path lights beam up and accentuates the focal setting. To prep for phase 2, ground cover pathways and areas are ready for the new outdoor movie projector, more privacy, picnic area, permanent seating, landscape and lighting to come.

British West Indies Inspired Custom Home in Winter Park Florida

Element Home Builders

Photo of a large contemporary backyard patio in Orlando with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Middletown NJ Waterfront

Gambrick

Go to www.GAMBRICK.com or call 732.892.1386 for additional information.
Mid-sized beach style backyard patio in New York with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Warren, NJ - Bluestone patio & walkway with fire pit and water feature

Parker Landscape Design

Natural Cleft Bluestone random pattern patio & walkway, LED mood lighting, landscape design & construction, masonry fire pit, seating wall and planter using cultured stone veneer, new composite deck installed wit water proofed understory, Bluestone steps, drainage installation, outdoor TV, cultured stone veneer on foundation walls of house installation, outdoor TV, cultured stone veneer on foundation walls of house

Mustang Park, Carrollton

AquaTerra Outdoors

AquaTerra Outdoors was hired to bring life to the outdoors of the new home. When it came time to design the space we were challenged with the tight space of the backyard. We worked through the concepts and we were able to incorporate a new pool with spa, custom water feature wall, Ipe wood deck, outdoor kitchen, custom steel and Ipe wood shade arbor and fire pit. We also designed and installed all the landscaping including the custom steel planter. Photography: Wade Griffith

Westcoast Craftsman Custom Home Build

Sprucehill Custom Homes & Renovations

Photo Cred: Brad Hill Imaging
Photo of an expansive arts and crafts backyard patio in Vancouver with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

New Berlin Fireplace

LandCrafters, LLC

The gas fire pit casts a warm glow to the landscape as if it was always there. LED lighting as path lights and wall lights illuminate the paving, while a Pekin Lilac tree is illuminated by an uplight.

Rustic Suburban Patio

Outdoor Dreams

Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Richmond with a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Greenworth House

DesignARC

This is an example of a large midcentury backyard patio in Santa Barbara with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Mediterranean Patio

Expansive mediterranean backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, tile and a pergola.

eagle Lane

Freestyle Architects P.C.

James Barney
Country patio in Denver with a fire feature and a gazebo/cabana.

Edmonds Residence

Casa Architecture and Interior Design

Fire pit terrace
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Seattle with gravel, a fire feature and no cover.

Wooden stairway

Magnolia Landscape and Design Co.

Deck steps leading to stone patio.
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Minneapolis with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Ranch

Linda McCalla Interiors

Mark Knight
Design ideas for a country backyard patio in Austin with a fire feature.

Blue Patio Design Ideas with a Fire Feature

A patio is a paved outdoor area that adjoins a house, and is a popular addition to Australian and New Zealand homes. Not only is it yet another place to enjoy the great outdoors, but it can also save you time and money on landscaping. Often seen as an extension of the indoor living space, patios and courtyards can serve multiple functions. If you add outdoor furniture such as lounge chairs and a sofa, a barbecue or outdoor kitchen and a dining table and chairs, you can use them for entertaining, cooking, dining, and relaxing. Browse the Photos on Houzz for courtyard and patio designs to see how you can best utilise your existing outdoor area.

What materials should I use to construct my patio?

Stone pavers and bricks are the most common surface materials used for patios, while concrete, tiles and gravel are also popular. Stone paving is usually at the top end of the price bracket, but is highly durable and the most natural-looking of the surface materials available. Brick patios, on the other hand, are relatively easy to lay, and provide a warm, rich colour that can complement traditional homes. Concrete patios are one of the least expensive to build and are also very durable, while gravel is quick and easy to install. You will also need to decide whether you want your patio covered or left uncovered. You can add roofing if you plan on using the space regularly, or opt for a pergola, trellis or umbrella for shade instead. Patio enclosures, usually made from glass or mesh screens, can also transform your space into an outdoor room.

What outdoor patio furniture and decor should I include?

A patio can be so much more than just a paved slab, if you add the right additions. An outdoor kitchen and bar will help make the space the life of the party, while high-quality, low-slung chairs will make you want to stay outside for longer. If you have the budget, you may even consider adding a spa or pool. To make it the ideal al fresco area even when temperatures drop, a fire pit or fireplace will be able to keep you and your company toasty warm. To entice you and your guests into the space, make some room for greenery, even if you just a place a pot plant atop a table. It will help tie in the area to the surrounding garden. Fairy lights, garden torches and citronella candles will also help set the mood and keep the mozzies at bay, while soft furnishings such as waterproof rugs, pillows and chair cushions will add personality. For something striking, consider adding a water feature or wall garden. If you're ready to hire a landscape professional to help you with the job, browse our directory here!